Sourdough Discard Brownies with Vanilla Bean

Name: Sourdough Discard Brownies with Vanilla Bean
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup sourdough discard; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas

These Sourdough Discard Brownies with Vanilla Bean are a delicious way to utilize leftover sourdough starter. Rich and fudgy, they offer a unique twist with the addition of aromatic vanilla bean.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-27T18:50:28.266Z

These brownies are a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and the tangy notes from sourdough. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also help reduce food waste by utilizing sourdough discard.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with the unique tang of sourdough
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for using up sourdough discard in a delicious way

      

The Perfect Use for Sourdough Discard

Sourdough discard is often overlooked, but it can be a valuable ingredient in your baking repertoire. Instead of tossing it out, why not transform it into something delicious? These brownies are a fantastic way to utilize leftover sourdough starter, turning what could be waste into a rich and indulgent treat. The slight tang of the sourdough adds depth to the chocolate flavor, making these brownies not only unique but also unforgettable.

Incorporating sourdough discard into recipes isn't just a sustainable choice; it also improves the texture of baked goods. The natural fermentation process in sourdough creates a moist and fudgy consistency that elevates the brownies to a whole new level. You'll find that these brownies stay fresh longer, thanks to the added moisture from the sourdough.

The Allure of Vanilla Bean

Vanilla bean is a luxurious addition that enhances the overall flavor profile of these brownies. Unlike vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste contains tiny flecks of real vanilla beans, which not only add visual appeal but also impart a more intense and aromatic flavor. This complexity pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate, creating a well-rounded dessert that's sure to impress.

Using vanilla bean paste is simple and effective; just a teaspoon is all you need to elevate your brownies. It blends seamlessly into the batter, ensuring that every bite is infused with its delightful essence. If you're a fan of vanilla, you’ll appreciate how this ingredient complements the sourdough and chocolate, resulting in a truly gourmet treat.

Tips for Perfect Brownies

To achieve the best results with your sourdough discard brownies, be sure not to overmix the batter. Gently folding in the dry ingredients ensures a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough brownies, which defeats the purpose of creating a fudgy treat. Aim for a smooth batter with just a few visible streaks of flour before pouring it into the baking pan.

Baking time is crucial for the perfect brownie. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want to pull them out of the oven when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This indicates that the brownies are fudgy and not overbaked. Remember to allow them to cool in the pan before cutting; this will help them set up nicely and hold their shape.

Ingredients

Brownie Ingredients

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup sourdough discard
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Add melted butter, eggs, sourdough discard, and vanilla bean paste to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Incorporate Flour

Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth. If using, add chocolate chips.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before slicing into squares and serving.

Enjoy your delicious brownies!

Storing Your Brownies

Once your sourdough discard brownies are baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh. You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

For even longer storage, these brownies freeze exceptionally well. Cut them into squares and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Customizing Your Brownies

One of the best things about brownies is their versatility. Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste or to use what you have on hand. Add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch, or swirl in caramel or peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor. You can also substitute the chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different twist.

If you're looking to enhance the chocolate flavor even further, consider adding a touch of espresso powder to the dry ingredients. This will intensify the chocolate notes without adding a coffee flavor. With a little creativity, you can make these brownies uniquely yours while still enjoying the rich, fudgy base of the original recipe.

Pairing Suggestions

These sourdough discard brownies are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich brownies. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with homemade chocolate sauce or serve with fresh berries on the side for a burst of freshness.

For those who enjoy a warm beverage with their dessert, a cup of coffee or espresso complements the chocolate beautifully. Alternatively, a glass of milk or a rich stout beer can also enhance the flavors of these fudgy brownies, making for a perfect dessert pairing that satisfies all cravings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly.

→ How should I store these brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for the eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs in this recipe.